“We look forward to many more scholarships in the forthcoming years. However, having the fragile nature of these scholarships in mind, we sincerely hope and wish that all students improve their economic well-being in the future.”

Skopje, Macedonia – Over 50 students will receive 1-year scholarships after the final rounds of this year’s Khalid Al Tawil Foundation scholarships were finalized later in April.

The foundation is seeking to support the academic growth of socially deprived students in Macedonia – one of the multiple hubs of its affiliate, Dubai’s LEORON Institute.

The call for applications, which was active throughout February and April, generated a record number of 700+ applicants, ranging from a diverse socioeconomic background.

The selection process was half the work, according to Foundation representatives. Recent economic shifts in the region have seen an inflow of future academics who are restricted from further education due to a lack of financial means.

“We received more than 700 applications – all candidates fit in one way or another. However, an intensive analysis followed by consultations with partners and experts, lead us to narrow down our selection to 50+ of the most vulnerable applicants. It was half the work, really – we paid special attention to selection because we are aware of the many struggles that local economy has imposed to the youth”, said Nena Dimovska, HR at LEORON Institute.

According to LEORON and Al Tawil reps, the scholarship program is going to proceed the following years as well.

“We look forward to many more scholarships in the future years. However, having the fragile nature of these scholarships in mind, we sincerely hope and wish that all students improve their economic well-being in the future”, added Dimovska.

While the selection process is complete and future students are being granted their reimbursements, the official award ceremony is to take place during the summer.